Installation Note

Lubricate the companion flange splines with lubricant.
NOTE:
- Disregard the scribe marks if a new companion flange is being installed.
Align the companion flange with the drive pinion shaft.

Fig 1: Aligning Companion Flange With Drive Pinion Shaft
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
With the drive pinion in place in the rear axle housing, install the companion flange using Companion Flange Replacer ST 205-002 (Tool 4858-E) or equivalent.
Position the new pinion nut.
CAUTION:
- Under no circumstances is the pinion nut to be backed off to reduce preloads. If reduced preload is required, a new collapsible spacer and pinion nut must be installed.
Using Coupling Holder ST 205-126 to hold the companion flange, tighten the pinion nut.
1. Rotate the pinion occasionally to make sure the cone and roller bearings are seating properly.
2. Install an Nm (inch/pound) torque wrench on the pinion nut.
3. Rotating the pinion through several revolutions, take frequent cone and roller bearing torque preload readings until the original recorded preload readings are obtained.
4. If the original recorded preload is lower than specifications for used bearings, tighten to the appropriate specification. If the preload is higher than the specification, then tighten the nut to the original reading as recorded.
Pinion bearing preload (new pinion bearings)
Tightening torque

1.8-3.3 N.m {18.4-34 kgf.cm, 16-29 in.lbf}
Pinion bearing preload (used pinion bearings)
Tightening torque

0.9-1.5 N.m {9.1-15.3 kgf.cm, 8-14 in.lbf}
- If additional adjustments are necessary, see DRIVELINE/AXLE SPECIFICATIONS .
Position the rear driveshaft and align the marks on the rear axle companion flange.
CAUTION:
- The propeller shaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle companion flange pilot. Never hammer on the propeller shaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the flange.
CAUTION:
- If new bolts to retain the propeller shaft to the axle are not available, coat the threads of the original bolts with thread-lock.
Install the four propeller shaft to rear axle companion flange bolts.

Fig 2: Installing Propeller Shaft To Rear Axle Companion Flange Bolts In Sequence - With Torque Specification
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Install the rear brake drums; see BRAKE DRUM, REAR REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .